Jewish Fundamentalism and the ‘Sacred Geography’ of Jerusalem in Comparative Perspective (1967–2004): Implications for Inter-Faith Relations

Abstract

Since the occupation of East Jerusalem and the West Bank by Israel in 1967 radical Judaism has developed into a major force, with a considerable influence on the attitudes and votes of many Israelis. The new messianic fervour centres on the building of the Temple on the site of the Muslim shrines in Jerusalem. This article explores the rise of a variety of Jewish fundamentalism in Israel and its implications for community, nationalist and interfaith relations in the Holy Land. It examines, in particular, the social and political conditions under which these fundamentalist attitudes have evolved. It explores evolving attitudes towards the ‘sacred geography’ of Jerusalem and rights of occupancy, within the wider context of multifaith relations and comparative (Jewish, Muslim and Christian) perspectives.